1. real estate

Sequence of Events:
Internal Revenue Code
§1031 permits investors to
defer capital gains taxes.
§
The successful completion of a §1031 like-kind
exchange is contingent on a specific timeframe.
Here is the general sequence of events:
attorney to send out contract of sale. Broker
and attorney will negotiate noncontingent
terms on current property with mechanism
for flexibility of closing date.
1. Find market expert/broker to evaluate
6. Engage qualified intermediary once current
and accountant to calculate various §1031
scenarios and review tax basis and value of
current property.
3. Determine if §1031 exchange makes
ompliance with Internal Revenue
This can result in significant
Code (IRC) §1031 allows investors
immediate savings. For example,
to defer up to 100% of the gain realized
in New York City, the tax bite on the
financial sense based upon tax analysis
and potential available replacement
properties in consultation with attorney
and accountant.
on the sale of investment property.
sale of an investment property can be
4. Hire broker in submarket (neighborhood
Accordingly, no capital gains tax is
around 40%. This includes federal, state
triggered by the sale and depreciation
and city taxes, as well as depreciation
recapture is deferred.
recapture.
§1031 authorizes a “like-kind
There is also the potential to lock in tax
exchange,” in which investment
savings over a longer term, as current
property is sold and the proceeds are
inheritance tax laws do not require
used to purchase similar property
payment of capital gains on step-up in
within a designated period of time.
basis (increase in net value).
The full value of the sold property must
be reinvested, and debt may figure
into both the sale and replacement
transactions.
Specific
rules
A properly strategized §1031
exchange can
also
increase
income by exchanging low-yield
property for higher performing property.
must
be
followed
carefully, but when everything is done
property is under contract. It will hold net
proceeds from sale of current property
in escrow until required for purchase of
replacement property.
current property, and explore the potential
replacement properties that may meet your
particular needs.
2. Retain attorney, qualified intermediary
C
5. Authorize broker to accept best offer and
and building class) to market current
property.
7. Pursue and make offers on potential
replacement properties.
8. Close on current/relinquished property
with attorney.
9. Identify potential replacement properties
and notify qualified intermediary.
10. Close
on replacement property(ies)
within 180 days of closing on relinquished
property.
11. Work with accountant to file appropriate
tax return reflecting the §1031 exchange.
Holm & O’Hara LLP offers strategic legal support for
complex real estate transactions and trusts and estates
(and matters that include aspects of both), as well as
comprehensive legal services for small corporations,
closely-held businesses and their owners. Our labor
law practice also represents the labor side in ERISA
and related matters for government- and union-based
pension and welfare funds. We work efficiently, using
small teams to provide the personal attention our clients
require. In every instance, we strive to secure the most
favorable results for our clients; to apply our knowledge
and experience to create solutions that endure beyond
the immediate need; and to provide sound counsel to
protect our clients’ interests.
Attorney Advertising. The information contained in this
publication is provided for informational purposes only.
This information is not intended to constitute, and should
not be considered, legal advice. It is not intended to substitute for obtaining legal advice from legal counsel in the
relevant jurisdiction. Terms, timeline and other text are simplified. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
© Holm & O’Hara LLP. All rights reserved.
Michael L. Landsman, Esq.
Lead §1031 Partner
(212) 682-2575
m.landsman@hohlaw.com
William P. Holm, Esq.
Senior Partner
(212) 682-2280 x39
w.holm@hohlaw.com
Valeria A. Kozhich, Esq.
Partner
(212) 461-6139
v.kozhich@hohlaw.com
properly, little or no capital gains tax
Holm & O’Hara llp
is due at the time the transactions are
completed.
Attorneys at Law 3 West 35th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10001
p. 212.682.2280 f. 212.682.2153 e. info@hohlaw.com www.hohlaw.com
Holm & O’Hara LLP

G eneral practice. Per fect f i t.
General prac tic e. Per fec t f i t.
One number
every real estate
investor
should know.
Sequence of Events:
Internal Revenue Code
§1031 permits investors to
defer capital gains taxes.
§
The successful completion of a §1031 like-kind
exchange is contingent on a specific timeframe.
Here is the general sequence of events:
attorney to send out contract of sale. Broker
and attorney will negotiate noncontingent
terms on current property with mechanism
for flexibility of closing date.
1. Find market expert/broker to evaluate
6. Engage qualified intermediary once current
and accountant to calculate various §1031
scenarios and review tax basis and value of
current property.
3. Determine if §1031 exchange makes
ompliance with Internal Revenue
This can result in significant
Code (IRC) §1031 allows investors
immediate savings. For example,
to defer up to 100% of the gain realized
in New York City, the tax bite on the
financial sense based upon tax analysis
and potential available replacement
properties in consultation with attorney
and accountant.
on the sale of investment property.
sale of an investment property can be
4. Hire broker in submarket (neighborhood
Accordingly, no capital gains tax is
around 40%. This includes federal, state
triggered by the sale and depreciation
and city taxes, as well as depreciation
recapture is deferred.
recapture.
§1031 authorizes a “like-kind
There is also the potential to lock in tax
exchange,” in which investment
savings over a longer term, as current
property is sold and the proceeds are
inheritance tax laws do not require
used to purchase similar property
payment of capital gains on step-up in
within a designated period of time.
basis (increase in net value).
The full value of the sold property must
be reinvested, and debt may figure
into both the sale and replacement
transactions.
Specific
rules
A properly strategized §1031
exchange can
also
increase
income by exchanging low-yield
property for higher performing property.
must
be
followed
carefully, but when everything is done
property is under contract. It will hold net
proceeds from sale of current property
in escrow until required for purchase of
replacement property.
current property, and explore the potential
replacement properties that may meet your
particular needs.
2. Retain attorney, qualified intermediary
C
5. Authorize broker to accept best offer and
and building class) to market current
property.
7. Pursue and make offers on potential
replacement properties.
8. Close on current/relinquished property
with attorney.
9. Identify potential replacement properties
and notify qualified intermediary.
10. Close
on replacement property(ies)
within 180 days of closing on relinquished
property.
11. Work with accountant to file appropriate
tax return reflecting the §1031 exchange.
Holm & O’Hara LLP offers strategic legal support for
complex real estate transactions and trusts and estates
(and matters that include aspects of both), as well as
comprehensive legal services for small corporations,
closely-held businesses and their owners. Our labor
law practice also represents the labor side in ERISA
and related matters for government- and union-based
pension and welfare funds. We work efficiently, using
small teams to provide the personal attention our clients
require. In every instance, we strive to secure the most
favorable results for our clients; to apply our knowledge
and experience to create solutions that endure beyond
the immediate need; and to provide sound counsel to
protect our clients’ interests.
Attorney Advertising. The information contained in this
publication is provided for informational purposes only.
This information is not intended to constitute, and should
not be considered, legal advice. It is not intended to substitute for obtaining legal advice from legal counsel in the
relevant jurisdiction. Terms, timeline and other text are simplified. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
© Holm & O’Hara LLP. All rights reserved.
Michael L. Landsman, Esq.
Lead §1031 Partner
(212) 682-2575
m.landsman@hohlaw.com
William P. Holm, Esq.
Senior Partner
(212) 682-2280 x39
w.holm@hohlaw.com
Valeria A. Kozhich, Esq.
Partner
(212) 461-6139
v.kozhich@hohlaw.com
properly, little or no capital gains tax
Holm & O’Hara llp
is due at the time the transactions are
completed.
Attorneys at Law 3 West 35th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10001
p. 212.682.2280 f. 212.682.2153 e. info@hohlaw.com www.hohlaw.com
Holm & O’Hara LLP

G eneral practice. Per fect f i t.
General prac tic e. Per fec t f i t.
One number
every real estate
investor
should know.
An Established
Tax Planning Strategy


1.Proceeds must be reinvested in a “like-kind” asset.
Careful planning is important. If your goal is to defer 100%
of the capital gains tax, then you must reinvest 100% of
the proceeds.
Although it is not as widely known as some
other provisions of the tax code, §1031 has
been part of the IRC for several decades and has
clear precedents going back even further.
2. There are strict time limits for completing each
phase of the exchange. Replacement properties must
be identified within 45 days of the sale of the original
(relinquished) property. Title to the replacement
property(ies) typically must close within 180 days of the sale
of the relinquished property.
A §1031 like-kind exchange is a tax planning
device. It can be used for many different classes
of assets, although real estate is one of the
primary applications.
3. The definition of “like-kind” allows for substantial
flexibility. In general, real estate is considered “like-kind”
with real estate, regardless of its commercial purpose or state
of improvement. Any income-producing property — including
single family homes, two family homes and condominiums
— can qualify for exchange with other income-producing
property. However, REITs (real estate investment trusts) and
other investment vehicles are not generally considered “likekind” with actual property.
According to the Internal Revenue Service’s
Statistical Information Services, individuals,
corporations and partnerships have reported
between 100,000 and 200,000 §1031 like-kind
exchanges every year for the past 15 years.
Is a §1031 Like-Kind
Exchange Right for You?
There are several circumstances in which a §1031
like-kind exchange can be particularly beneficial.
If one or more of the following applies to your
situation, it may make sense to explore the
possibility of a §1031 with your advisors:
 Has your property significantly increased in value?
 Have you owned your property for a long time?
 Has there been considerable depreciation?
 Are you interested in one or more of the following:
 Expanding
into new local areas or
consolidating your holdings in one region?
4. Only business or investment property is eligible. You cannot
typically use a §1031 like-kind exchange to immediately
purchase a primary residence, secondary residence or vacation
home in some circumstances. With proper planning, however,
many types of property can qualify at a later date.


Essentials of the §1031 Like-Kind Exchange:
Potential Advantages
of a §1031 Like-Kind Exchange:
1. Deferment of capital gains taxes.
2. Increased flexibility for retirement,
tax and estate planning.
3. Improved cash flow.
4. Reduced property management responsibilities.
The potential advantages of a §1031 like-kind exchange will,
however, depend on your particular circumstances.
Your advisors will help you evaluate your options and work out
detailed scenarios before you make final decisions.
 Purchasing more of a certain type of
 Exiting the business of day-to-day property
management?
 Acquiring
a retirement or vacation home
for your limited or future use?

Just like any type of investment, the returns for real estate
are based on the risk. In the case of a net lease property,
the aspects to consider are value of the real estate, terms of
the lease, credit worthiness of the tenant and health of the
business at that location. You will particularly need to:
1. Confirm the type of net lease. Some properties have single
or double net leases. These may produce greater returns, but
require more direct management and involvement on your
part. Any of these investments could be good, but you will
want to determine whether they match your specific goals.

Triple Net Leases
Investors who desire to reduce their day-to-day
roles in property management will often use a
§1031 like-kind exchange to release capital from
a management-intensive property (such as a
multi-family apartment building) and reinvest
it in property(ies) that do not require active
management.
2. Evaluate the tenant. Commercial leases have a long
lifespan, so you want to ensure that your tenant is
someone you feel comfortable — and confident — in doing
business with. The same applies to the lease guarantor,
if there is one.
Many of these properties are referred to as
“triple net lease” properties because they
are occupied by commercial tenants who are
obligated to make specified rent payments.
3. Make sure it is not subject to other transactions. Net
leases may give tenants the right of first refusal when the
owner decides to sell. It is also possible for a net lease
property to be in contract with another potential buyer.
Neither of these obstacles is insurmountable, but both will
add to your timeframe and potentially increase costs.
These tenants are also obligated to assume all of
the costs associated with operating the property
and keeping it in good repair (taxes, insurance
and building maintenance are the three “nets”).
4. Consider your lender’s requirements. Lenders have
specific requirements that may or may not be met by
the tenant’s lease. It is necessary to carefully review the
lender’s requirements. To the extent that you can, it is a
good idea to look at this beforehand, as it could be an
additional expense.
While triple net lease properties are by no means
the only investment properties eligible for §1031
exchange, it may be worth exploring whether
this type of property meets your particular
investment needs.
A versatile strategy for investing real estate gains

The Team
Successful execution of the transactions involved in a
§1031 like-kind exchange requires a team of professionals,
each with a specific role.
Qualified intermediary: Nearly all §1031 likekind exchanges require a qualified intermediary
(QI) or facilitator. The QI will:
Attorney: Most people begin by retaining a law firm with




§1031 experience. The law firm’s attorneys become the lead
professionals on your team. Your attorneys will:
 Negotiate agreements.
 Evaluate existing legal documents, such as the
purchase agreement and commercial lease.
 Prepare new legal documents.
 Advise you proactively at every stage of the process.
 Recommend and oversee the work of other
team members.
 Coordinate sale and purchase with
qualified intermediary.
Primary role: Ensuring legal protection of your
best interests.
What to look for:  Has legal support (associate
attorneys, paralegals, etc.)  Has §1031 experience
 Is a good personal “fit” for you
Broker: the real estate broker is likely the first team
member you will recruit (although sometimes the broker
will recruit clients first). The broker will help you:
 Understand overall market conditions.
 Determine the sales price range for
your property.
 Maximize price and terms of the property sale
by generating multiple competing offers.
 Provide flexibility for the sale and guarantee
buyer performance.
 Identify potential replacement properties
that meet your specifications.
 Establish the condition of the
replacement property.
 Negotiate the purchase price for the
replacement property.
Primary role: Closing the deal.
What to look for:  Knows your market
property, or diversifying your holdings
into several different types of property?
Things to look for before you commit:

Holm & O’Hara llp
Has exchange experience  Has a consistent track record
Take receipt of the proceeds from your sale.
Retain proceeds in escrow account.
Monitor timeline for your §1031 exchange.
Prepare the documents necessary to structure
the transaction as a §1031 exchange.
 Facilitate purchase of replacement properties.
Primary role: Assuring compliance with §1031
rules and preserving eligibility for tax deferral.
What to look for:  Fidelity bonded

Recommended by your attorney
Accountant: An accountant experienced with
§1031 like-kind exchanges should be retained
before sale of the original (“relinquished”)
property. The accountant can:




Calculate likely cash flow.
Perform tax computations.
Evaluate financing options.
Allocate expenses between those that can
be covered as part of the exchange and
those that must be paid out of pocket.
 Ensure compliance with IRS regulations
regarding §1031 filings.
Primary role: Evaluating your financial options
and maintaining tax protection.
What to look for:  Recommended by your
attorney  Has a consistent track record of
producing detailed §1031 scenario evaluations
Types of property: A wide range of commercial
and investment property can qualify for a §1031
like-kind exchange, including, but not limited to:
 Income-generating residential property
(single and multi-family).
 Commercial and residential condominiums.
 Commercial and retail buildings.
 Manufacturing and industrial facilities.
 Undeveloped or partially developed land.
CONTINUED

An Established
Tax Planning Strategy


1.Proceeds must be reinvested in a “like-kind” asset.
Careful planning is important. If your goal is to defer 100%
of the capital gains tax, then you must reinvest 100% of
the proceeds.
Although it is not as widely known as some
other provisions of the tax code, §1031 has
been part of the IRC for several decades and has
clear precedents going back even further.
2. There are strict time limits for completing each
phase of the exchange. Replacement properties must
be identified within 45 days of the sale of the original
(relinquished) property. Title to the replacement
property(ies) typically must close within 180 days of the sale
of the relinquished property.
A §1031 like-kind exchange is a tax planning
device. It can be used for many different classes
of assets, although real estate is one of the
primary applications.
3. The definition of “like-kind” allows for substantial
flexibility. In general, real estate is considered “like-kind”
with real estate, regardless of its commercial purpose or state
of improvement. Any income-producing property — including
single family homes, two family homes and condominiums
— can qualify for exchange with other income-producing
property. However, REITs (real estate investment trusts) and
other investment vehicles are not generally considered “likekind” with actual property.
According to the Internal Revenue Service’s
Statistical Information Services, individuals,
corporations and partnerships have reported
between 100,000 and 200,000 §1031 like-kind
exchanges every year for the past 15 years.
Is a §1031 Like-Kind
Exchange Right for You?
There are several circumstances in which a §1031
like-kind exchange can be particularly beneficial.
If one or more of the following applies to your
situation, it may make sense to explore the
possibility of a §1031 with your advisors:
 Has your property significantly increased in value?
 Have you owned your property for a long time?
 Has there been considerable depreciation?
 Are you interested in one or more of the following:
 Expanding
into new local areas or
consolidating your holdings in one region?
4. Only business or investment property is eligible. You cannot
typically use a §1031 like-kind exchange to immediately
purchase a primary residence, secondary residence or vacation
home in some circumstances. With proper planning, however,
many types of property can qualify at a later date.


Essentials of the §1031 Like-Kind Exchange:
Potential Advantages
of a §1031 Like-Kind Exchange:
1. Deferment of capital gains taxes.
2. Increased flexibility for retirement,
tax and estate planning.
3. Improved cash flow.
4. Reduced property management responsibilities.
The potential advantages of a §1031 like-kind exchange will,
however, depend on your particular circumstances.
Your advisors will help you evaluate your options and work out
detailed scenarios before you make final decisions.
 Purchasing more of a certain type of
 Exiting the business of day-to-day property
management?
 Acquiring
a retirement or vacation home
for your limited or future use?

Just like any type of investment, the returns for real estate
are based on the risk. In the case of a net lease property,
the aspects to consider are value of the real estate, terms of
the lease, credit worthiness of the tenant and health of the
business at that location. You will particularly need to:
1. Confirm the type of net lease. Some properties have single
or double net leases. These may produce greater returns, but
require more direct management and involvement on your
part. Any of these investments could be good, but you will
want to determine whether they match your specific goals.

Triple Net Leases
Investors who desire to reduce their day-to-day
roles in property management will often use a
§1031 like-kind exchange to release capital from
a management-intensive property (such as a
multi-family apartment building) and reinvest
it in property(ies) that do not require active
management.
2. Evaluate the tenant. Commercial leases have a long
lifespan, so you want to ensure that your tenant is
someone you feel comfortable — and confident — in doing
business with. The same applies to the lease guarantor,
if there is one.
Many of these properties are referred to as
“triple net lease” properties because they
are occupied by commercial tenants who are
obligated to make specified rent payments.
3. Make sure it is not subject to other transactions. Net
leases may give tenants the right of first refusal when the
owner decides to sell. It is also possible for a net lease
property to be in contract with another potential buyer.
Neither of these obstacles is insurmountable, but both will
add to your timeframe and potentially increase costs.
These tenants are also obligated to assume all of
the costs associated with operating the property
and keeping it in good repair (taxes, insurance
and building maintenance are the three “nets”).
4. Consider your lender’s requirements. Lenders have
specific requirements that may or may not be met by
the tenant’s lease. It is necessary to carefully review the
lender’s requirements. To the extent that you can, it is a
good idea to look at this beforehand, as it could be an
additional expense.
While triple net lease properties are by no means
the only investment properties eligible for §1031
exchange, it may be worth exploring whether
this type of property meets your particular
investment needs.
A versatile strategy for investing real estate gains

The Team
Successful execution of the transactions involved in a
§1031 like-kind exchange requires a team of professionals,
each with a specific role.
Qualified intermediary: Nearly all §1031 likekind exchanges require a qualified intermediary
(QI) or facilitator. The QI will:
Attorney: Most people begin by retaining a law firm with




§1031 experience. The law firm’s attorneys become the lead
professionals on your team. Your attorneys will:
 Negotiate agreements.
 Evaluate existing legal documents, such as the
purchase agreement and commercial lease.
 Prepare new legal documents.
 Advise you proactively at every stage of the process.
 Recommend and oversee the work of other
team members.
 Coordinate sale and purchase with
qualified intermediary.
Primary role: Ensuring legal protection of your
best interests.
What to look for:  Has legal support (associate
attorneys, paralegals, etc.)  Has §1031 experience
 Is a good personal “fit” for you
Broker: the real estate broker is likely the first team
member you will recruit (although sometimes the broker
will recruit clients first). The broker will help you:
 Understand overall market conditions.
 Determine the sales price range for
your property.
 Maximize price and terms of the property sale
by generating multiple competing offers.
 Provide flexibility for the sale and guarantee
buyer performance.
 Identify potential replacement properties
that meet your specifications.
 Establish the condition of the
replacement property.
 Negotiate the purchase price for the
replacement property.
Primary role: Closing the deal.
What to look for:  Knows your market
property, or diversifying your holdings
into several different types of property?
Things to look for before you commit:

Holm & O’Hara llp
Has exchange experience  Has a consistent track record
Take receipt of the proceeds from your sale.
Retain proceeds in escrow account.
Monitor timeline for your §1031 exchange.
Prepare the documents necessary to structure
the transaction as a §1031 exchange.
 Facilitate purchase of replacement properties.
Primary role: Assuring compliance with §1031
rules and preserving eligibility for tax deferral.
What to look for:  Fidelity bonded

Recommended by your attorney
Accountant: An accountant experienced with
§1031 like-kind exchanges should be retained
before sale of the original (“relinquished”)
property. The accountant can:




Calculate likely cash flow.
Perform tax computations.
Evaluate financing options.
Allocate expenses between those that can
be covered as part of the exchange and
those that must be paid out of pocket.
 Ensure compliance with IRS regulations
regarding §1031 filings.
Primary role: Evaluating your financial options
and maintaining tax protection.
What to look for:  Recommended by your
attorney  Has a consistent track record of
producing detailed §1031 scenario evaluations
Types of property: A wide range of commercial
and investment property can qualify for a §1031
like-kind exchange, including, but not limited to:
 Income-generating residential property
(single and multi-family).
 Commercial and residential condominiums.
 Commercial and retail buildings.
 Manufacturing and industrial facilities.
 Undeveloped or partially developed land.
CONTINUED

An Established
Tax Planning Strategy


1.Proceeds must be reinvested in a “like-kind” asset.
Careful planning is important. If your goal is to defer 100%
of the capital gains tax, then you must reinvest 100% of
the proceeds.
Although it is not as widely known as some
other provisions of the tax code, §1031 has
been part of the IRC for several decades and has
clear precedents going back even further.
2. There are strict time limits for completing each
phase of the exchange. Replacement properties must
be identified within 45 days of the sale of the original
(relinquished) property. Title to the replacement
property(ies) typically must close within 180 days of the sale
of the relinquished property.
A §1031 like-kind exchange is a tax planning
device. It can be used for many different classes
of assets, although real estate is one of the
primary applications.
3. The definition of “like-kind” allows for substantial
flexibility. In general, real estate is considered “like-kind”
with real estate, regardless of its commercial purpose or state
of improvement. Any income-producing property — including
single family homes, two family homes and condominiums
— can qualify for exchange with other income-producing
property. However, REITs (real estate investment trusts) and
other investment vehicles are not generally considered “likekind” with actual property.
According to the Internal Revenue Service’s
Statistical Information Services, individuals,
corporations and partnerships have reported
between 100,000 and 200,000 §1031 like-kind
exchanges every year for the past 15 years.
Is a §1031 Like-Kind
Exchange Right for You?
There are several circumstances in which a §1031
like-kind exchange can be particularly beneficial.
If one or more of the following applies to your
situation, it may make sense to explore the
possibility of a §1031 with your advisors:
 Has your property significantly increased in value?
 Have you owned your property for a long time?
 Has there been considerable depreciation?
 Are you interested in one or more of the following:
 Expanding
into new local areas or
consolidating your holdings in one region?
4. Only business or investment property is eligible. You cannot
typically use a §1031 like-kind exchange to immediately
purchase a primary residence, secondary residence or vacation
home in some circumstances. With proper planning, however,
many types of property can qualify at a later date.


Essentials of the §1031 Like-Kind Exchange:
Potential Advantages
of a §1031 Like-Kind Exchange:
1. Deferment of capital gains taxes.
2. Increased flexibility for retirement,
tax and estate planning.
3. Improved cash flow.
4. Reduced property management responsibilities.
The potential advantages of a §1031 like-kind exchange will,
however, depend on your particular circumstances.
Your advisors will help you evaluate your options and work out
detailed scenarios before you make final decisions.
 Purchasing more of a certain type of
 Exiting the business of day-to-day property
management?
 Acquiring
a retirement or vacation home
for your limited or future use?

Just like any type of investment, the returns for real estate
are based on the risk. In the case of a net lease property,
the aspects to consider are value of the real estate, terms of
the lease, credit worthiness of the tenant and health of the
business at that location. You will particularly need to:
1. Confirm the type of net lease. Some properties have single
or double net leases. These may produce greater returns, but
require more direct management and involvement on your
part. Any of these investments could be good, but you will
want to determine whether they match your specific goals.

Triple Net Leases
Investors who desire to reduce their day-to-day
roles in property management will often use a
§1031 like-kind exchange to release capital from
a management-intensive property (such as a
multi-family apartment building) and reinvest
it in property(ies) that do not require active
management.
2. Evaluate the tenant. Commercial leases have a long
lifespan, so you want to ensure that your tenant is
someone you feel comfortable — and confident — in doing
business with. The same applies to the lease guarantor,
if there is one.
Many of these properties are referred to as
“triple net lease” properties because they
are occupied by commercial tenants who are
obligated to make specified rent payments.
3. Make sure it is not subject to other transactions. Net
leases may give tenants the right of first refusal when the
owner decides to sell. It is also possible for a net lease
property to be in contract with another potential buyer.
Neither of these obstacles is insurmountable, but both will
add to your timeframe and potentially increase costs.
These tenants are also obligated to assume all of
the costs associated with operating the property
and keeping it in good repair (taxes, insurance
and building maintenance are the three “nets”).
4. Consider your lender’s requirements. Lenders have
specific requirements that may or may not be met by
the tenant’s lease. It is necessary to carefully review the
lender’s requirements. To the extent that you can, it is a
good idea to look at this beforehand, as it could be an
additional expense.
While triple net lease properties are by no means
the only investment properties eligible for §1031
exchange, it may be worth exploring whether
this type of property meets your particular
investment needs.
A versatile strategy for investing real estate gains

The Team
Successful execution of the transactions involved in a
§1031 like-kind exchange requires a team of professionals,
each with a specific role.
Qualified intermediary: Nearly all §1031 likekind exchanges require a qualified intermediary
(QI) or facilitator. The QI will:
Attorney: Most people begin by retaining a law firm with




§1031 experience. The law firm’s attorneys become the lead
professionals on your team. Your attorneys will:
 Negotiate agreements.
 Evaluate existing legal documents, such as the
purchase agreement and commercial lease.
 Prepare new legal documents.
 Advise you proactively at every stage of the process.
 Recommend and oversee the work of other
team members.
 Coordinate sale and purchase with
qualified intermediary.
Primary role: Ensuring legal protection of your
best interests.
What to look for:  Has legal support (associate
attorneys, paralegals, etc.)  Has §1031 experience
 Is a good personal “fit” for you
Broker: the real estate broker is likely the first team
member you will recruit (although sometimes the broker
will recruit clients first). The broker will help you:
 Understand overall market conditions.
 Determine the sales price range for
your property.
 Maximize price and terms of the property sale
by generating multiple competing offers.
 Provide flexibility for the sale and guarantee
buyer performance.
 Identify potential replacement properties
that meet your specifications.
 Establish the condition of the
replacement property.
 Negotiate the purchase price for the
replacement property.
Primary role: Closing the deal.
What to look for:  Knows your market
property, or diversifying your holdings
into several different types of property?
Things to look for before you commit:

Holm & O’Hara llp
Has exchange experience  Has a consistent track record
Take receipt of the proceeds from your sale.
Retain proceeds in escrow account.
Monitor timeline for your §1031 exchange.
Prepare the documents necessary to structure
the transaction as a §1031 exchange.
 Facilitate purchase of replacement properties.
Primary role: Assuring compliance with §1031
rules and preserving eligibility for tax deferral.
What to look for:  Fidelity bonded

Recommended by your attorney
Accountant: An accountant experienced with
§1031 like-kind exchanges should be retained
before sale of the original (“relinquished”)
property. The accountant can:




Calculate likely cash flow.
Perform tax computations.
Evaluate financing options.
Allocate expenses between those that can
be covered as part of the exchange and
those that must be paid out of pocket.
 Ensure compliance with IRS regulations
regarding §1031 filings.
Primary role: Evaluating your financial options
and maintaining tax protection.
What to look for:  Recommended by your
attorney  Has a consistent track record of
producing detailed §1031 scenario evaluations
Types of property: A wide range of commercial
and investment property can qualify for a §1031
like-kind exchange, including, but not limited to:
 Income-generating residential property
(single and multi-family).
 Commercial and residential condominiums.
 Commercial and retail buildings.
 Manufacturing and industrial facilities.
 Undeveloped or partially developed land.
CONTINUED

Sequence of Events:
Internal Revenue Code
§1031 permits investors to
defer capital gains taxes.
§
The successful completion of a §1031 like-kind
exchange is contingent on a specific timeframe.
Here is the general sequence of events:
attorney to send out contract of sale. Broker
and attorney will negotiate noncontingent
terms on current property with mechanism
for flexibility of closing date.
1. Find market expert/broker to evaluate
6. Engage qualified intermediary once current
and accountant to calculate various §1031
scenarios and review tax basis and value of
current property.
3. Determine if §1031 exchange makes
ompliance with Internal Revenue
This can result in significant
Code (IRC) §1031 allows investors
immediate savings. For example,
to defer up to 100% of the gain realized
in New York City, the tax bite on the
financial sense based upon tax analysis
and potential available replacement
properties in consultation with attorney
and accountant.
on the sale of investment property.
sale of an investment property can be
4. Hire broker in submarket (neighborhood
Accordingly, no capital gains tax is
around 40%. This includes federal, state
triggered by the sale and depreciation
and city taxes, as well as depreciation
recapture is deferred.
recapture.
§1031 authorizes a “like-kind
There is also the potential to lock in tax
exchange,” in which investment
savings over a longer term, as current
property is sold and the proceeds are
inheritance tax laws do not require
used to purchase similar property
payment of capital gains on step-up in
within a designated period of time.
basis (increase in net value).
The full value of the sold property must
be reinvested, and debt may figure
into both the sale and replacement
transactions.
Specific
rules
A properly strategized §1031
exchange can
also
increase
income by exchanging low-yield
property for higher performing property.
must
be
followed
carefully, but when everything is done
property is under contract. It will hold net
proceeds from sale of current property
in escrow until required for purchase of
replacement property.
current property, and explore the potential
replacement properties that may meet your
particular needs.
2. Retain attorney, qualified intermediary
C
5. Authorize broker to accept best offer and
and building class) to market current
property.
7. Pursue and make offers on potential
replacement properties.
8. Close on current/relinquished property
with attorney.
9. Identify potential replacement properties
and notify qualified intermediary.
10. Close
on replacement property(ies)
within 180 days of closing on relinquished
property.
11. Work with accountant to file appropriate
tax return reflecting the §1031 exchange.
Holm & O’Hara LLP offers strategic legal support for
complex real estate transactions and trusts and estates
(and matters that include aspects of both), as well as
comprehensive legal services for small corporations,
closely-held businesses and their owners. Our labor
law practice also represents the labor side in ERISA
and related matters for government- and union-based
pension and welfare funds. We work efficiently, using
small teams to provide the personal attention our clients
require. In every instance, we strive to secure the most
favorable results for our clients; to apply our knowledge
and experience to create solutions that endure beyond
the immediate need; and to provide sound counsel to
protect our clients’ interests.
Attorney Advertising. The information contained in this
publication is provided for informational purposes only.
This information is not intended to constitute, and should
not be considered, legal advice. It is not intended to substitute for obtaining legal advice from legal counsel in the
relevant jurisdiction. Terms, timeline and other text are simplified. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
© Holm & O’Hara LLP. All rights reserved.
Michael L. Landsman, Esq.
Lead §1031 Partner
(212) 682-2575
m.landsman@hohlaw.com
William P. Holm, Esq.
Senior Partner
(212) 682-2280 x39
w.holm@hohlaw.com
Valeria A. Kozhich, Esq.
Partner
(212) 461-6139
v.kozhich@hohlaw.com
properly, little or no capital gains tax
Holm & O’Hara llp
is due at the time the transactions are
completed.
Attorneys at Law 3 West 35th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10001
p. 212.682.2280 f. 212.682.2153 e. info@hohlaw.com www.hohlaw.com
Holm & O’Hara LLP

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General prac tic e. Per fec t f i t.
One number
every real estate
investor
should know.